From the ground up, there are multiple reasons why your car begins shaking. Sometimes you can tell where the shaking originates based on the car's behavior, such as if the shaking worsens when you drive faster or starts when you stop. A shaking car always warrants a mechanic's immediate attention, as it can indicate a significant problem. If your vehicle starts shaking, one of these five leading causes may be to blame.
Brakes
The brakes, especially the front brakes, are especially susceptible to wear. The brakes on the average car last for about 50,000 miles. If your vehicle is approaching the 50,000-mile mark and you haven't yet had the brakes replaced, it might be time to do so. Shaking caused by the brakes may be more noticeable when you hit the brakes. Additionally, you may hear a screeching or grating sound coming from the brakes. This is caused when the brake pads wear out and allow the brake rotors, which are metal components, to rub against each other. The brake pads, rotors, or even the brakes themselves may need to be replaced.
Wheels
Problems with the wheels may also lead to the car's shaking or vibrations. The wheels can become damaged from potholes or encountering other mishaps as you're driving along. If the problem comes from the wheels, the car may start to shake more with acceleration. Parts on the wheels that go bad, such as the ball joints and tie end rods, may lead to vibration. Shaking that's coming from the wheels might also be accompanied by a wobbly steering wheel.
Engine
Problems with the engine can also appear in the form of shaking and vibration. You may notice that the shaking is worse when you start the car or persists as you drive along. Sometimes, faulty spark plugs are to blame for shaking that begins with the engine. Spark plugs will generally last from 80,000 miles to 100,000 miles, but they can sometimes last longer. If you drive a higher-mileage car, have a mechanic check the spark plugs to see if they're worn out.
Alternatively, the air filter that delivers clean and oxygenated air to the engine may become contaminated and filled with debris. When that happens, the engine doesn't get enough oxygen, and its performance suffers as a result. The air filter may need to be cleaned or replaced.
Tires
The tires can cause excessive vibration and shaking if they wear out unevenly or if their surfaces are too worn all together. Tires that are not balanced correctly or filled either too little or too far out of their recommended range can make the car shake. This problem is usually most noticeable as you're driving.
Axles
Your car's axles may become dented or damaged from running over curbs, hitting potholes, or getting into even a minor accident. Shaking that worsens with acceleration is a good indication of a problem with the axle.
Contact the experts at our Phoenix dealership today for quality service and repairs.
When it comes to electric-vehicle sales, Chevrolet outpaces all other U.S. manufacturers—a testament to its drive to expand its electric lineup. Chevrolet offers an EV for every purpose, from heavy-duty pickups to compact SUVs. These vehicles don't just perform—they come loaded with advanced technology.
Purchase prices do not include tax, title, license and $599.00 doc fee. Prices include the listed rebates and incentives. Please verify all information. We are not responsible for typographical, technical, or misprint errors. Inventory is subject to prior sale. Contact us via phone or email for more details. *MPG Based on 2019 EPA mileage ratings. Use for comparison purposes only. Your mileage will vary depending on driving conditions, how you drive and maintain your vehicle, battery-pack age/condition, and other factors.
We use cookies and browser activity to improve your experience, personalize content and ads, and to analyze how our sites are used. For more information on how we collect and use this information, please review our Privacy Policy and Review our Terms.